Knight Riders wary of Watson

Kolkata Knight Riders’ legendary all-rounder Jacques Kallis was full of praise for Rajasthan Royal’s all-rounder Shane Watson ahead of their clash with Rajasthan Royals at Sawai Mansingh Stadium here today. “He (Watson) is a world-class player and can change the complexion of the match. If he plays tomorrow, he might have a big role to play,” veteran South African told the reporters yesterday.

The last time when the two teams crossed swords at this Stadium, KKR were beaten neck and crop, but kallis dismissed the suggestions that it would have an impact on the upcoming game. “Yes, we lost to them last year because we did not play well. Now things are different and we have different kind of strengths and weaknesses. We have won the first match and that has given us a lot of confidence going into this match,” said Kallis.

He also wished that Brendon Mccullum’s injury is not a grave one and the dashing opener would be back soon. “Yes, he too is a world-class batsman and I hope his injury was not serious and he would join us soon. His arrival would give us strength and more options,” Kallis added.

He showered praise on his KKR teammate and West Indian mystery spinner, Sunil Narine as well and said he should stick to the basics. “He is a world-class bowler and would trouble most of the batsmen. The wicket here might not turn as much as back home but he now has international experience. We could adjust to the wicket if we stick to the basics,” he stated.